Marion was the eldest child of John H. and Nancy (McLain) Dale. His siblings were John Wilburn, Fannie, Robert M., Emory T., James R. and Charles A. Dale.

He attended Anderson School then walked to attend Professor Turrentine's school. Following this, Marion taught school and entered Northwestern University at Chicago to study medicine. He graduated from there in 1874.

He married Amanda Edgington on 3 October 1875 at Ten Mile Church. They were the parents three sons and one daughter. Amanda preceded him in death.

He was survived by his three sons, Omer of Connerville, Indiana; Harry of Chicago Heights, Illinois; and Ernest A. of Danville, Illinois; his daughter, Mrs. Ada Weltner of St. Louis, Missouri. He was also survived by two grandchildren, Lillian Dale, daughter of Omer; and Dale Weltner, son of Ada.